App Stores
Ongoing coverage on App Stores.
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Phil Schiller reportedly steps down as Apple's App Store and product event chief
Phil Schiller is reportedly stepping down from his role as Apple's chief of the App Store and product event organizer. He will remain with Apple as an Apple Fellow, focusing on unspecified initiatives.
Google must make it easier to install alternative app stores, judge orders
A judge has ordered Google to make it easier for users to find and install alternative app stores. Google has one week to implement these changes, which will impact how users access third-party applications on its platform.
An Android app store competitor is available in the Play Store
Aptoide Games, an alternative app store for Android, is now available for download directly from the Google Play Store. This move allows users to access Aptoide's offerings through Google's official distribution channel.
Apple briefly removed Telegram from the App Store after reports of CSAM
Apple briefly removed the Telegram messaging app from its App Store following reports of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) being distributed on the platform. Telegram stated that it has had anti-CSAM procedures in place since 2018 and publishes daily transparency reports.
Morning Legal Briefs
The European Commission has fined Google approximately $1 billion for alleged antitrust violations related to its Search and Play Store operations. This ruling addresses concerns about Google's practices within its dominant search engine and mobile application marketplace.
Morning Legal Briefs
San Francisco has formally requested that Apple and Google remove AI applications capable of 'nudifying' images from their respective app stores. This action highlights ongoing concerns regarding the misuse of AI technology and content moderation on major mobile platforms.
Google will allow third-party app stores on Android next week
Google will enable third-party app stores on its Android operating system starting July 22. This change will allow users to download applications from sources other than the official Google Play Store.
Apple loses legal fight over its App Store 'gatekeeper' status in Europe
Apple has lost its legal challenge against European Union rules that mandate opening its platforms to third-party services. The court ruling upholds the EU's 'gatekeeper' status designation for Apple's App Store.
Evening Mobilization
Apple has blocked several key Russian applications, prompting advice for Russian citizens to switch to Android. This action follows previous restrictions on Russian developers and services.
Google will open the Play Store to outside billing on June 30
Google will permit developers to implement alternative billing options within the Play Store in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe starting June 30. This change allows for more flexibility in payment processing for applications.
Apple opens up third-party app stores in Brazil
Apple is introducing third-party app stores to its iOS platform in Brazil. This move allows for alternative app distribution channels beyond the official App Store within the country.
Apple begins requiring age verification for App Store use in Texas
Apple will begin requiring age verification for App Store use in Texas starting tomorrow, in compliance with a new state law governing app usage by minors. This policy change affects how users in Texas interact with and download applications.
Apple may open up the App Store to agentic AI
Apple is reportedly considering opening its App Store to agentic artificial intelligence applications. This move could potentially impact the company's revenue streams, suggesting a significant shift in its platform strategy.
Epic Games Store & Fortnite come to iPhone in Japan
Epic Games Store and Fortnite are coming to iPhone in Japan following the passage of the Mobile Software Competition Act. This new legislation, effective December 2025, mandates support for third-party app stores and payment options on mobile platforms.
Epic Games Store launches on iPhone in Japan
The Epic Games Store has launched on iPhone in Japan, following the implementation of the Mobile Software Competition Act which mandates support for alternative app stores. Epic Games stated that due to Apple's imposed fees and complex installation process, the store will initially only feature Epic's own titles like Fortnite and Rocket League Sideswipe. Epic is working with regulators to address these perceived anticompetitive practices.
Apple could be fined up to $38 billion by Indian antitrust regulator
Apple faces a final hearing on May 21 with India's antitrust regulator, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), over its refusal to submit financial data. The CCI is investigating Apple for allegedly exploiting its dominant position with the App Store, while Apple argues Android holds a larger market share in India. A potential fine could reach up to $38 billion.
Alternative app store Aptoide files antitrust lawsuit against Google, alleges "anticompetitive chokehold"
Alternative app store Aptoide has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google in a San Francisco federal court, alleging anticompetitive practices and seeking damages. Aptoide claims Google maintains an "anticompetitive chokehold" on third-party app stores. This lawsuit follows Aptoide's previous complaint to EU antitrust authorities in 2014 and Google's recent resolution with Epic Games over similar accusations.
Apple and Google are reportedly pointing users to nudify apps
Apple and Google are reportedly continuing to promote "nudify" apps on their respective app stores, despite policies against such content. These apps, which can create explicit images of real people, have generated significant revenue and downloads, with some even rated for children. Both companies claim to be taking action, but a report suggests they are actively directing users to these problematic applications.
Apple’s Copy-Cat Playbook is Crushing Mobile Gaming Innovation
This article criticizes Apple's strategy of 'borrowing' innovations from competitors, arguing it stifles progress in mobile gaming. Developers face limitations due to Apple's slow adoption of new features and technologies, impacting the entire iOS gaming ecosystem. The piece suggests the industry is moving towards alternatives as Apple continues its conservative approach.
Russia closes loophole to fully block payments for Apple services
Russia has closed a loophole that previously allowed citizens to pay for Apple digital services, including the App Store. Starting April 1, 2026, these payments will be fully blocked, a move reportedly aimed at preventing users from purchasing VPN applications. This action is part of a broader government effort to increase online censorship and control information access.